Our regular guest blogger Terri Fitton was one of the grooms that had to make a quick return from one of the tours in Spain, when the coronavirus forced the country into sudden lockdown. What should have been a three-week tour with Katharina Offel and her horses, lasted less than a week and before she knew it Terri was on the way back home to Holland.

“Hi everyone,

After the trip to Oliva we settled in really well and were enjoying some sunshine. The horses jumped beautifully on Thursday and Friday, and after three months out for myself after a knee surgery we were back into the swing of things and looking forward to the coming weeks. Then next thing we know, we were already leaving from Oliva on Sunday at lunch time after the realisation that the coronavirus was here to stay for a while and there would be no more showing.

The trip back home from Oliva was probably one of the nicest drives I’ve ever had. And after being based in Spain before and travelling up to ‘normal’ Europe more times than anyone ever should, I have had plenty experiences. When you can tell everyone what each gas station you pass is like and what’s in the shop, you know it’s too much! 

Although the trip was easy for me, I think maybe for Kathi and Jannicke it was a bit more uncomfortable as they drove back up with us following in the car the whole way. After hearing so many reports of borders closed and that we were all going to be stranded along the way they felt more comfortable to follow along behind our two trucks and trailers. Perhaps by the time we reached home they were not quite as comfortable, I think we might be travelling solo next time!

For sure it’s not nice to be stuck home with a stable full of horses raring to get out jumping, but this is the way it is and if we listen now to the rules then it will mean that hopefully this virus is slowed down and got under control. For me it’s just nice to be back working with the horses after my ‘injury time’ and we have settled into a comfortable routine at home. The horses can go in the grass paddocks every day, and it feels nice to give them this time at home to develop and enjoy themselves. 

I think it’s important to use this time to get to know every horse in your stable, even more the ones that normally as a show groom you don’t spend much time with. You never know, they may be your next super star! See how you can help them develop, and what they need help with to improve both physically and mentally. 

Stay safe, wash your hands and just enjoy spending time with the horses every day without being tired from driving or worrying about where your heading off to next week. Just remember the real reason we all do this job: So we can care for and love ALL our ponies.

Terri”

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